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A Kenyan journalist is seeking government intervention following the detention of his South African wife, author Zukiswa Wanner, by Israeli forces during an aid mission to Gaza, highlighting the ongoing humanitarian crisis.
Nairobi, Kenya – Kenyan journalist James Murua has publicly appealed to the Kenyan government and the African Union for urgent intervention after his wife, acclaimed South African author Zukiswa Wanner, was among hundreds of activists detained by the Israeli military. Wanner was aboard the Global Sumud Flotilla, a convoy attempting to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza, when it was intercepted on Thursday, October 2, 2025, at approximately 4:00 AM EAT.
The flotilla, comprising over 40 vessels and carrying approximately 500 activists from 40 countries, including prominent figures like climate activist Greta Thunberg and Nkosi Zwelivelile (Nelson Mandela's grandson), aimed to break Israel's naval blockade on Gaza and deliver essential supplies such as food, medicine, and fuel. Israeli authorities intercepted the vessels in international waters, claiming the activists were attempting to breach a lawful naval blockade. However, organisers of the flotilla maintain that international law mandates the unimpeded passage of humanitarian aid.
This incident echoes the deadly 2010 Gaza flotilla raid, where Israeli commandos killed nine Turkish activists aboard the Mavi Marmara, a ship leading a similar aid mission. Kenya, in 2010, condemned the killings as "grossly callous and a brazen violation of international law." The current interception has reignited international debate over Israel's blockade of Gaza, which has been in place since Hamas took control in 2007, severely restricting the entry of goods and aid.
Kenya's foreign policy, as outlined in its first written foreign policy document, prioritises promoting and safeguarding national, regional, and international peace and security, and supporting the work of international organisations in resolving conflicts. While Kenya has historically been a recipient of significant humanitarian aid, securing US$359.2 million in 2024, its foreign policy also emphasizes its role in global diplomacy and humanitarian efforts.
The United Nations Human Rights Office has condemned the interception of aid flotillas, stating that such actions contravene international law and humanitarian principles. A joint statement issued by 16 countries, including South Africa, expressed concern for the safety of the Global Sumud Flotilla and called for adherence to international law, including humanitarian law, warning that violations would lead to accountability.
James Murua expressed profound concern for his wife's safety, citing the 2010 incident as a source of fear, especially given the lack of communication from the detained passengers. He highlighted his wife's long-standing advocacy for the Palestinian struggle, stemming from her upbringing in the African National Congress in exile. Murua emphasised that the flotilla was carrying only humanitarian supplies, not weapons, and urged sustained international attention on the broader humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has called for the release of South African nationals, a move welcomed by Murua. Activists on board the flotilla have maintained they were unarmed and accused Israel of "piracy in international waters."
The interception of the Global Sumud Flotilla has sparked global protests and drawn comparisons to the 2010 Mavi Marmara incident, further straining Israel's diplomatic relations. Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch have accused Israel of "collective punishment" and urged world governments to impose sanctions, including arms embargoes, if the humanitarian crisis in Gaza persists.
Details regarding the exact number of detainees, their conditions, and the precise timeline for their release and deportation remain fluid. While Israel's Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed the interception and stated that passengers were safe and would be promptly deported, concerns persist among families and human rights organisations.
The international community will be closely watching for the safe release and deportation of all detained activists. Further diplomatic pressure on Israel regarding its blockade of Gaza and adherence to international humanitarian law is anticipated. The Kenyan government's official response and diplomatic efforts to secure Zukiswa Wanner's release will also be a key area of focus.
